Pope Leo concluded a two‑day pilgrimage to the Marian shrine at Lourdes on Sunday, delivering messages of healing, solidarity, and hope to crowds estimated at more than 60,000. The visit, his first to the pilgrimage site since becoming pontiff, centred on prayer services at the Grotto of Massabielle, where the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858.
On Saturday evening, Pope Leo led the traditional torchlight procession, walking alongside pilgrims from more than 40 countries. He urged the faithful to “carry light into places shadowed by conflict and despair.”
On Sunday morning’s outdoor Mass he focused on those living with chronic illness, disability, or isolation. Pope Leo spent over an hour greeting individuals in the crowd, blessing hospital workers and volunteers. In his homily, Pope Leo called for renewed diplomatic efforts in regions experiencing war and instability, saying that “Lourdes teaches us that healing begins with listening.”
Over the weekend, he held a private session with French bishops to discuss declining church attendance, youth engagement, and safeguarding reforms.
Pilgrims described the visit as “deeply moving,” with many noting the Pope’s extended unscripted interactions.
All videos from Pope Loe's visit to Lourdes: Vatican News - YouTube
Image courtesy of www.vaticannews.va
You can re-live the Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes in August 2026 here: Lourdes | Clifton Diocese